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Great American Media Doubles Down on Christian Christmas Films

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, February 7th 2026 at 6:20 GMT by Dallas Morning News
      Locales: Texas, California, UNITED STATES

By Eleanor Vance

Saturday, February 7th, 2026 - In an increasingly polarized media landscape, Great American Media is carving out a distinctive niche, and its CEO, Daniel Ritchie, is making no apologies for it. What started as a modest venture in 2021 has rapidly evolved into a significant player in the crowded holiday entertainment market, and the network's strategy is clear: explicitly infuse Christian values into its Christmas programming. With a planned rollout of 24 new Christmas movies and specials over the next year, Great American Family isn't simply offering festive cheer; it's actively attempting to redefine what constitutes a "traditional" Christmas film.

Speaking recently, Ritchie articulated a core belief driving this ambitious expansion: "I believe a lot of the Christmas movies out there now, frankly, don't celebrate the Christian roots of Christmas." This statement, while straightforward, speaks to a perceived gap in the market. While many holiday films feature themes of family and goodwill, Ritchie argues they often omit or downplay the religious significance of the season. Great American Media is positioning itself as the antidote to this perceived trend, aiming to cater to a demographic that feels underserved by mainstream offerings.

The network's upcoming lineup is indicative of this intention. Titles like A Royal Christmas Reunion (a sequel capitalizing on the success of its 2021 predecessor) and The Christmas Letter, which focuses on a character's spiritual rediscovery during the holidays, signal a clear thematic direction. Beyond fictional narratives, the network is also leveraging established cultural touchstones and contemporary Christian music. The live stage adaptation of A Christmas Story promises a nostalgic experience, while a Christmas Eve special featuring the acclaimed band for KING & COUNTRY explicitly taps into the faith-based audience. This blended approach - classic appeal combined with overt religious messaging - represents a calculated effort to broaden reach while remaining firmly rooted in the network's core values.

However, this unwavering commitment to "faith, family, and patriotism," as Ritchie describes it, hasn't come without criticism. Great American Media has faced accusations of promoting a conservative agenda that doesn't resonate with all Americans. Some critics argue the network's programming reinforces specific political and social viewpoints, potentially alienating viewers who hold different beliefs. This has sparked a debate about the role of faith and values in entertainment, and whether networks have a responsibility to represent diverse perspectives.

Ritchie, however, is unconcerned with universal appeal. "We're not trying to appeal to everyone," he stated. "We're trying to appeal to families who want to celebrate Christmas in a meaningful way." This targeted approach is clearly working. Great American Media's growth demonstrates a tangible demand for content that aligns with specific values. Industry analysts suggest that the network's success isn't simply about faith, but also about a broader cultural trend of seeking out entertainment that provides a sense of comfort and stability in an increasingly chaotic world.

Several factors contribute to this demand. The rise of streaming services has fragmented the entertainment landscape, allowing niche networks like Great American Family to thrive. Viewers are no longer limited by traditional television schedules or channel availability, and they are increasingly curating their own viewing experiences. This allows them to actively seek out content that reflects their beliefs and values, rather than passively accepting what's offered. Furthermore, the pandemic underscored the importance of family connection and shared experiences, fueling a desire for wholesome, family-friendly entertainment.

The implications of Great American Media's success extend beyond the holiday season. It suggests that there is a significant, and often overlooked, market for faith-based entertainment. Other networks and streaming services may be forced to reassess their programming strategies, potentially leading to a greater diversity of perspectives and values represented on screen. However, this also raises questions about the potential for further fragmentation and the creation of echo chambers, where viewers are only exposed to content that confirms their existing beliefs. The long-term impact of this trend remains to be seen, but it's clear that Great American Media is playing a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of holiday entertainment, and potentially, the broader media industry.